Nintendo Switch Update SHOCK! Is Your Console Safe?

Well, folks, Nintendo's at it again! A fresh system update, version 21.0.1, just dropped for both the original Nintendo Switch and the shiny new Switch 2. Now, before you groan about another update, let's dive into what this one actually *does*.

Nintendo Switch Update SHOCK! Is Your Console Safe...

This patch arrives suspiciously close on the heels of their last major update, which, let's just say, ruffled some feathers. Remember the kerfuffle over third-party Switch 2 docks potentially being bricked? Nintendo addressed the concerns, claiming they had no intention of hindering legitimate third-party accessories. But the damage was done, and everyone was left wondering if their favorite dock would suddenly become useless.

So, what's the verdict on dock compatibility with this new update? So far, so good...ish. Initial reports don't indicate any immediate changes, for better or for worse. That said, given the sheer number of third-party docks out there, it's going to take some time to thoroughly test everything. We'll definitely be keeping an eye on this and will update you if anything changes. Nintendo's official patch notes are probably drier than toast, but we'll link to them if you're *really* curious.

Switching gears (pun intended!), let's talk numbers. Nintendo also announced that the Switch 2 has sold a mind-boggling 10.36 million units between June 5 and September 30. Yes, you read that right. Ten *million*. That absolutely crushes the original Switch's launch sales, practically doubling them, and cements the Switch 2 as the biggest console launch *ever*. Talk about starting strong!

And what's driving these sales? Well, *Mario Kart World*, the Switch 2's flagship title, has sold a whopping 9.57 million copies. *Donkey Kong Bananza* isn't slouching either, having sold 3.49 million since July. And let's not forget *Pokémon Legends Z-A*, which moved 5.8 million copies in its first week alone! Clearly, Nintendo knows how to launch a console with a bang.

Looking forward, the Switch 2 has *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* on the horizon, slated for release on December 4th. Some fans have been waiting literal *decades* for this game, so expectations are...high. Recent previews have focused on the game's surprisingly talkative NPC, which, honestly, has been a bit divisive. I'm personally hoping the full game delivers a more positive experience. Either way, it's shaping up to be a huge holiday season for Nintendo.

Tom Phillips, News Editor at IGN, can be reached at tom_phillips@ign.com or on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social.